Ryan Gerard Earns Spot at This Week’s Puerto Rico Open via Fourth-Place Finish at PGA National

Alex Elias

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A Monday qualifier for last week’s Honda Classic at PGA National Resort, Ryan Gerard recorded a solo fourth-place finish in his PGA Tour debut. Following the Final Round, Gerard said, “I’m thrilled with the finish. I’m thrilled with the opportunities that come from it.”

By finishing in the Top 10, Gerard automatically qualifies for the Puerto Rico Open, a PGA Tour opposite-field event to the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard.

Puerto Rico Monday is today. Ryan Gerard was signed up and scheduled to tee it up at 1:05, instead he finished fourth at the Honda, got in the main field, and make $411K.
There is 120 players looking to do the same this week. https://t.co/bE7myFaSJu

— Monday Q Info (@acaseofthegolf1) February 27, 2023

The 23-year-old University of North Carolina alum closed The Honda Classic with a 3-under 67 for a total of 10-under, finishing four strokes shy of the Chris Kirk–Eric Cole playoff, won by Kirk.

“I really leaned on my caddie throughout the week. We have good chemistry out there, and we kept things positive and lighthearted even in tough situations,” said Gerard.

Having played in the final group on Saturday, Gerard added, “Pressure was definitely a little higher in the final pairing, but as I got used to the atmosphere, I felt a lot more comfortable and relaxed. I just tried to have fun with everything and enjoy the moment because it was super cool.”

Even with the added pressure of the weekend, Gerard said, “I didn’t change anything routine-wise. The most important thing is to treat each shot, day, and tournament as important without overemphasizing anything.”
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Looking ahead to the Puerto Rico Open, Gerard said, “The biggest takeaway is that I feel confident and comfortable that I can compete on the PGA Tour. That’s huge for me because it reinforces that I belong out there and that I know I can be there soon. I’m just going to continue what I’ve been doing routine-wise, trust it, and have fun and enjoy the ride.”